The CFDA 2024 Fashion Awards, presented by Amazon Fashion, lit up the American Museum of Natural History. Hosted by Cynthia Erivo, this celebrated event brought together the biggest names in fashion to honor those who have significantly shaped the sartorial landscape.
Rachel Scott, the Jamaican-American designer behind Diotima, took home the prestigious title of American Womenswear Designer of the Year. Last year, she won the CFDA’s Shop With Google American Emerging Designer of the Year award. Scott’s designs continue to captivate audiences and stand out among competitors such as Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch, Proenza Schouler‘s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, and Thom Browne.
Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarria emerged as the American Menswear Designer of the Year, recognized for his impactful creations that celebrate Latino heritage. He won over nominees Mike Amiri for AMIRI, Emily Adams Bode Aujla for Bode, Thom Browne and Todd Snyder.
Henry Zankov, a Russian-born American talent, received the Shop with Google American Emerging Designer of the Year award. Based in New York, Zankov’s innovative approach to design sets him apart and showcases a forward-thinking style that resonates with a modern audience. Zankov competed against Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kasell for Tanner Fletcher, Jackson Wiederhoeft for Wiederhoeft, Connor McKnight, and Presley Oldham.
In accessories, Raul Lopez for Luar was named American Accessories Designer of the Year. He beat out nominees Ana Khouri, Stuart Vevers for Coach, Catherine Holstein for Khaite and Tory Burch. Lopez was previously a winner in this category in 2022 for his designs.
Internationally, Daniel Roseberry for Schiaparelli was named International Designer of the Year, while Michael Kors was honored with the Positive Change Award for its efforts to promote social impact and sustainability. These awards highlight the global influence and responsibility of fashion in driving positive social change.
Annie Leibovitz was honored with the Media Award on behalf of Eugenia Sheppard, underscoring her monumental impact on visual storytelling in fashion. This award, presented by the iconic Anna Wintour, celebrates Leibovitz’s enduring legacy.
The Founder’s Award, in memory of Eleanor Lambert, was presented by Marc Jacobs to Hamish Bowles, while Stephen Burrows received the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award. These honors recognized their lasting contributions to the industry.
The evening also included a heartfelt tribute to Isabel Toledo, with the Board of Directors’ Tribute presented by Molly Ringwald and accepted by Ruben Toledo.
Fashion icon Erykah Badu closed the event with her award, celebrated for her daring and influential style that blends vintage and contemporary elements. Her sartorial choices have inspired designers worldwide, including Rick Owens, Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty and Thom Browne, demonstrating the power of personal style.
The CFDA 2024 Awards not only celebrated the brilliance of American fashion, but also highlighted its far-reaching impact across the globe. The evening was a vibrant tribute to the vision and talent that define the industry, honoring both rising stars and seasoned icons.
